Introduction
It is extremely important for cat owners to understand which foods and substances are toxic to cats. Cats are supremely curious creatures and will try to eat or play with anything they can access. Unfortunately, there are many common household foods, plants, and outdoor substances that can be extremely toxic or even fatal if ingested by cats. Poisoning is one of the most common reasons for emergency veterinary visits. By knowing about potentially dangerous items, cat owners can cat-proof their homes, yards, and outdoor spaces to keep their curious kitties safe.
According to the ASPCA, some of the most common cat toxins include human foods like onions, garlic, chocolate, alcohol, coffee, raisins, grapes, xylitol, and foods high in salt, fat or sugar. Toxic plants include lilies, poinsettias, chrysanthemums, and aloe vera. Medications, chemicals, pesticides, rat poisons, and automotive products can also be very dangerous.[1]
Most Common Household Toxins
Many everyday household items can be toxic to cats if ingested, even in small amounts[1]. Common toxins in the home that cats may encounter include:
- Cleaners like bleach, ammonia, and heavy duty floor cleaners[2]
- Medications including over-the-counter pain relievers and cold medicines[1]
- Plants such as lilies, philodendrons, azaleas, and oleander[3]
- Rodenticides and insecticides[2]
- Automotive products like antifreeze and gasoline[2]
- Chemicals such as paint, glue, solvents, and pesticides[1]
Cats are especially susceptible to toxins because of their smaller size and tendency to be curious explorers. Any area where chemicals or medications are stored should be securely closed off from a cat’s access. Plants that are toxic if ingested should also not be kept in households with felines.
[1] https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/household-hazards-toxic-hazards-for-cats
[2] https://www.akcpetinsurance.com/blog/8-common-household-dangers-for-cats
[3] https://www.stellaandchewys.com/cats/household-items-toxic-to-cats/
Human Foods Toxic to Cats
Many human foods can be dangerous or even fatal for cats. Some of the most toxic foods that cats should never consume include:
Chocolate – Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and death (Source).
Onions – Onions contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in cats, leading to anemia. Symptoms include weakness, breathing problems, and reddish urine (Source).
Grapes and Raisins – Even small amounts of grapes and raisins can cause severe kidney damage in cats. Vomiting, lethargy, and lack of appetite are common symptoms (Source).
Avoid feeding cats any human foods unless specifically approved by your veterinarian. Many foods that are safe for people can be extremely dangerous for cats. Cats have different nutritional requirements and metabolisms. When in doubt, stick to high-quality commercial cat food and treats.
Outdoor Toxins
Outdoors, there are many potential toxins that can harm cats if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Some of the most dangerous include:
Antifreeze – Ethylene glycol in antifreeze has a sweet taste but is highly toxic. As little as one teaspoon can be fatal to a cat. Signs of antifreeze poisoning include vomiting, seizures, and kidney failure.1
Fertilizers – Fertilizers may contain poisonous ingredients like insecticides and herbicides. Exposure can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and even liver damage.
Pesticides – Flea and tick sprays, weed killers, and insecticides can be absorbed through a cat’s skin. Pesticide poisoning can damage the nervous system, kidneys and liver.
Plants – Sago palms, lilies, azaleas and other plants release toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, liver failure and even death if eaten by cats.
Garden chemicals and toxins should be kept securely out of a cat’s reach. Owners should try to use natural alternatives when possible.
It’s also important to bring cats inside while fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides are being applied outdoors and avoid walking through treated lawns until they are dry.
Most Toxic Foods
There are a few specific foods and substances that are especially toxic for cats and should be avoided at all costs. These include:
Xylitol – This sugar alcohol sweetener used in gum, candy, and baked goods can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver damage in cats. Even small amounts can be toxic.
Alcohol – Ethanol found in alcoholic beverages is very dangerous for cats. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, coordination issues, breathing problems, and even coma or death.
Caffeine – Caffeine found in coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks is toxic to cats. It can cause hyperactivity, heart palpitations, restlessness and muscle tremors.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of poisoning in cats include:
- Excessive drooling or salivation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy or sluggishness
- Uncoordinated walking or stumbling
- Twitching or seizures
- Rapid breathing or panting
- Coughing
- Depression
- Tremors
Cats may exhibit symptoms within a few minutes up to several hours after ingesting a toxic substance, depending on the toxin and amount consumed. Severe poisoning can lead to collapse, coma or sudden death in extreme cases. If a cat is showing any unusual symptoms after eating something, poisoning should be suspected and veterinary help sought immediately.
According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, “Uncharacteristic sluggishness, unsteady gait, drooling, heavy breathing, diarrhea, seizures, and sudden bouts of vomiting are among the common clinical signs of poisoning in cats.” [1]
Prevention
There are several ways to help prevent your cat from being exposed to toxins and poisons around the home:
- Keep human medications, cleaning supplies, automotive chemicals and other hazardous substances locked away or sealed in child-proof containers. Cats can get into surprising places, so make sure toxins are truly inaccessible.
- Never give cats medication like acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen without veterinary supervision, as these can be extremely toxic to cats.
- Avoid using rodenticides or insecticides indoors. Opt for natural alternatives when possible.
- Keep food items like chocolate, coffee, onions, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, sugar-free gum and alcohol away from cats.
- Ensure trash cans have tight lids, as cats may get into and eat discarded foods or other hazardous items.
- Keep an eye on cats when outdoors to ensure they don’t eat or drink anything potentially toxic.
- Learn to identify common poisonous plants and yard hazards, and keep cats away from these.
- Use pet-safe cleaners and grooming products.
- Never let cats near antifreeze, fertilizers, pesticides or other chemicals in the garage or shed.
With some care and planning, most serious toxin exposures can be avoided. But it’s still important to know the signs of poisoning and respond quickly if an exposure occurs.
What to Do
If you suspect your cat has ingested something toxic, immediate action is crucial. Here are some important first aid steps:
First, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control) right away. They can provide guidance based on the substance ingested and your cat’s symptoms.
If your cat is vomiting, drooling excessively or having seizures, avoid putting your fingers in their mouth so they don’t bite you. Wear thick gloves if you need to remove something from their mouth.
If the toxin is caustic like bleach, rinse your cat’s mouth out with a little milk or water. Don’t induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by your vet, as some substances can cause more damage coming back up.
Bring a sample of the ingested toxin with you to the vet if possible. Keep the container it came in.
Try to keep your cat as calm and comfortable as possible until you can get veterinary care. This may mean dimming the lights, keeping noise and activity low, and comforting your cat with your voice and touch.
With quick action, most poisonings can be treated successfully, so don’t hesitate to call for help if you notice concerning symptoms.
Prognosis
The prognosis for a cat after poisoning depends heavily on the type and amount of toxin ingested. Some toxins like antifreeze are extremely toxic even in small doses, while other substances like chocolate are only problematic in large quantities. Cats who ingest mild irritants or small amounts of moderately toxic substances can often fully recover within 24 hours with prompt veterinary treatment. However,cats who consume large doses of highly toxic substances often have poor prognoses.
According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, the prognosis is generally good if treated early for poisoning from over-the-counter medications, plants, and other moderate toxins. However, permanent organ damage and even death is possible when a cat consumes something extremely toxic like antifreeze, heavy metals, or prescription drugs. Even with treatment, the kidney and liver damage from some poisons may be irreversible.
The amount ingested also plays a major role. Consuming a tiny amount of chocolate likely will just cause an upset stomach, while eating multiple ounces can be fatal. For serious toxins, even a small ingestion could be life-threatening. That’s why it’s critical to bring cats who may have ingested anything potentially toxic to the vet right away, as early treatment greatly improves prognosis.
Conclusion
Recap most dangerous toxins and emphasize preventing access.
Some of the most toxic foods and substances for cats include xylitol, chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, caffeine, alcohol, macadamia nuts, avocados, moldy/spoiled foods, antifreeze, and rodenticides. The best way to prevent poisoning is to keep these items out of reach of cats. Cats are naturally curious and will explore and eat anything they can access. Make sure human foods, household cleaners, automotive products, plants, and medications are securely stored where pets cannot access them. Treatment for poisoning will vary based on the substance and severity, so it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately if poisoning is suspected. With prompt treatment, many cats can fully recover. The key is prevention and creating a safe home environment free of toxins. Following these precautions can help avoid potentially fatal poisoning incidents.
